Across the United States, each state has its go-to fast food favorite that proudly claims bragging rights for flavors that locals cannot resist. This list is here to take you through each one. Here's a tasty tour of the fast food legends dominating each state right now!

Alabama – Chick-fil-A

Alabama picked Chick-fil-A, and honestly, nobody’s shocked. The Peach State’s neighbor just cannot get enough of those crispy chicken sandwiches and waffle fries. Chick-fil-A started in Georgia in 1946 and has since become the go-to spot for quick, friendly service—and don't forget the Polynesian sauce.

Alaska – McDonald's

In a state where you can literally drive for hours without seeing another soul, spotting those famous golden arches is almost like finding treasure. Alaskans turn to McDonald’s for Big Macs, crispy fries, and that comforting consistency. McDonald’s opened its first Alaska store in Anchorage in 1970.

Arizona – In-N-Out

Arizona couldn’t resist the call of the Double-Double. The state's dry heat pairs surprisingly well with animal-style fries and milkshakes thick enough to bend a spoon. Pro tip: The "secret menu" isn’t a secret—ask for your " protein-style burger, and they’ll wrap it in lettuce.

Arkansas – Chick-fil-A

Once again, Chick-fil-A grabs the crown, this time in Arkansas. Maybe it’s the buttery buns or perhaps it’s that sweet tea. Arkansans rally around Chick-fil-A like it’s college football season, and the restaurants are packed by noon. Nobody else hands you your food with that much pure, sincere "my pleasure."

California – In-N-Out

California’s loyalty to In-N-Out runs deep. This is where the magic began, right in Baldwin Park in 1948. Those palm tree–lined drive-thrus are as iconic as Hollywood itself. Californians swear by the quality—fresh, never frozen beef, hand-cut fries, and milkshakes made with real ice cream.

Colorado – Chick-fil-A

Colorado may be famous for its mountains, but people are heading straight for Chick-fil-A when it comes to fast food. The chain’s clean dining rooms and famously polite staff align with Colorado’s love for laid-back, quality experiences. Plus, the grilled nuggets are a hit among the health-conscious crowd.

Connecticut – Panda Express

Connecticut decided it was time for a little orange chicken glow-up. Panda Express, founded in Glendale, California, in 1983, became the quick fix for people craving bold flavors without a long wait. Panda's sweet and savory plates punch through the noise in a state filled with quaint diners and seafood shacks.

Delaware – Chick-fil-A

Tiny but mighty Delaware picked Chick-fil-A as its fast food heavyweight. Delawareans love that quick service almost as much as the original chicken sandwich. Also, rumor is that the lemonade in Delaware’s Chick-fil-A locations is sweeter than anywhere else, though that might just be local pride talking.

Florida – Chick-fil-A

Chick-fil-A keeps things consistent and delicious in a state where you can go from swampland to white-sand beaches in a matter of hours. Florida even ranks among the states with the most Chick-fil-A locations—proof that chicken rules in the Sunshine State.

Georgia – Chick-fil-A

There's no surprise here: Georgia is practically Chick-fil-A. The very first restaurant opened in Atlanta in 1946 as the Dwarf Grill. Fast-forward nearly 80 years, and it's practically a food group. Atlantans consider Chick-fil-A sacred ground, right up there with the Braves and sweet tea.

Hawaii – Panda Express

Hawaiians love the big flavors, generous portions, and that comforting combo of chow mein and orange chicken. Panda Express made its way to the islands decades ago and quickly earned a loyal following. On Oahu, Panda Express locations are often packed after beach days when everyone’s too hungry to cook.

Idaho – Chick-fil-A

Idahoans line up for those chicken sandwiches and seriously addictive waffle fries—proving that even in the Land of Spuds, there’s room for another carb. Chick-fil-A’s balance of crispy chicken, soft buns, and signature sauces has made it a mainstay for Boise commuters and college students.

Illinois – White Castle

Illinois sticks to its roots with White Castle, the fast food king that started flipping tiny burgers. Founded in Wichita but made famous across the Midwest, White Castle’s bite-sized sliders are practically a rite of passage. Chicagoans love grabbing a sack of sliders after a night out.

Indiana – McDonald's

With thousands of locations sprinkled across the country, McDonald's remains a favorite, especially in Indiana, where small towns and big cities alike find comfort in those golden arches. McDonald's all-day breakfast menu, first tested in select Indiana locations, became a national phenomenon in 2015.

Iowa – Wendy's

Iowans seem to appreciate that Wendy’s prides itself on using fresh, never frozen beef—a point founder Dave Thomas hammered home way before it became trendy. The very first Wendy’s opened in Columbus, Ohio, but the brand has made itself right at home in the Midwest.

Kansas – Jack in the Box

Kansas went all in on Jack in the Box, and honestly, it fits. With a menu that offers everything from tacos to burgers to tiny pancakes, Jack's is a crowd-pleaser in a state that loves options. Those late-night Munchie Meals are perfect for satisfying cravings after Friday night football!

Kentucky – Chick-fil-A

Even with Colonel Sanders looming large in Kentucky’s food culture, Chick-fil-A carves out a major slice of the chicken pie. People just can’t say no to a juicy sandwich and those irresistible waffle fries. For a state that knows good chicken, the choice says a lot.

Louisiana – Chick-fil-A

Louisiana, known for bold, spicy food, still gives Chick-fil-A its seal of approval. Maybe it’s the spicy chicken sandwich or the ultra-crispy nuggets, but the Bayou State keeps returning for more. Sure, Popeyes was born here, but Chick-fil-A's simple, clean flavors offer a nice change-up.

Maine – McDonald's

Those hot, salty fries taste just as good after a chilly boat ride as they do on a summer afternoon. McDonald's once sold lobster rolls exclusively in New England—and Maine’s locations were among the first to offer the McLobster in the '90s.

Maryland – Chick-fil-A

The Free State has embraced everything from breakfast minis to frosted lemonade. Maryland's Chick-fil-A locations often sponsor local community events like high school sports and holiday parades, building serious loyalty. No wonder Marylanders practically treat Chick-fil-A like a second home, minus the steamed crabs.

Massachusetts – McDonald's

Massachusetts picked the old reliable: McDonald's. The golden arches still pull massive crowds in a state that produced Dunkin’ and clam chowder. Maybe it’s because McDonald's feels familiar in a state filled with history, or it’s because grabbing a Filet-O-Fish after a day at Fenway just hits differently.

Michigan – McDonald's

Michiganders often grab a Quarter Pounder with Cheese after a Tigers game or snag fries during a snowy road trip up I-75. Michigan is also home to one of the highest-grossing McDonald's locations in Detroit. It makes sense; when it’s freezing outside, comfort food has to be warm.

Minnesota – Panda Express

Minnesota leaned into something a little saucier by choosing Panda Express. Orange chicken tastes even better when it’s below zero outside. The Twin Cities' love affair with strong flavors and quick service made Panda a natural fit. The Beijing Beef also delivers serious warmth on a snowy night.

Mississippi – Chick-fil-A

Tradition runs deep in Mississippi, and so does the love for Chick-fil-A. It has become the default answer to "where should we eat?" The chicken biscuits during breakfast hours are a Southern rite of passage. Mississippi ranks among the highest in Chick-fil-A customer satisfaction surveys nationwide.

Missouri – Chick-fil-A

Show-Me State residents love a good chicken sandwich, and Chick-fil-A delivers. Missouri’s sprawling cities and small towns keep the drive-thru lanes buzzing, especially around lunchtime. Missouri was one of the earliest adopters of Chick-fil-A’s newer menu items, like the grilled chicken club sandwich.

Montana – Sonic

Montana residents love options, and Sonic's massive drink menu has over 1.3 million combinations if you're feeling creative. Sonic started as a root drink stand in Oklahoma back in 1953. Montana's ranchers, road-trippers, and city dwellers roll through for cherry limeades, tater tots, and burgers.

Nebraska – McDonald's

Nebraska sticks with the classic. Whether it's students grabbing McNuggets after a Huskers game or families picking up Happy Meals on a lazy Sunday, McDonald's stays busy in the Cornhusker State. Nebraska also hosts some of the friendliest McDonald’s locations in the country.

Nevada – In-N-Out

Vegas alone feels like it runs on blackjack tables, buffets, and In-N-Out burgers at 3 a.m. In fact, it is one of the busiest in the country. In-N-Out is famously strict about its ingredients—no microwaves, freezers, or heat lamps. That’s why Nevadans keep showing up.

New Hampshire – McDonald's

New Hampshire loves the simple things, and McDonald's fits that bill perfectly. After hiking the White Mountains or kayaking on Lake Winnipesaukee, grabbing a McDouble just feels right. Plus, for a smaller state, New Hampshire has a surprisingly high McDonald's-to-population ratio.

New Jersey – Panda Express

Panda Express was the first American Chinese food chain to pass $3 billion in sales without franchising every location. Jersey folks appreciate hustle, and Panda's got plenty of it. Garden State residents love the speed and flavor of Panda’s orange chicken and chow mein. Busy commuters grabbing a quick lunch also know what’s up.

New Mexico – Chick-fil-A

New Mexico's intense flavors usually lean toward green chile, but Chick-fil-A has the keys when it comes to fast food. New Mexico was one of the first states to test the spicy Chick-n-Strips, and they were a hit. Now, crispy chicken sandwiches are just as beloved as a breakfast burrito.

New York – Church's Chicken

Church’s Chicken has been serving crispy goodness since 1952, starting right across the street from the Alamo in Texas. Although New York takes pride in its pizza and bagels, it still makes serious space for Church’s Chicken, particularly the famous fried chicken and honey-butter biscuits.

North Carolina – Chick-fil-A

North Carolina sticks close to its Southern roots with Chick-fil-A leading the fast-food pack. You’ll find those double drive-thrus jammed even on rainy days. Tar Heels keep it classic with nuggets, sweet tea, and maybe an extra tub of Polynesian sauce in the car console.

North Dakota – McDonald's

When temperatures dip into minus territory, nothing feels quite as comforting as a bag of hot fries and a quarter-pounder. McDonald's has tailored some menu options in colder states with heartier breakfast items, and hash browns have an almost cult following in places like Fargo.

Ohio – Chick-fil-A

Across the Buckeye State, you’ll spot drive-thrus packed tighter than the Horseshoe on game day. Chick-fil-A’s mix of speed, friendliness, and that perfectly seasoned chicken makes it a no-brainer. Ohio consistently ranks in the top five states for Chick-fil-A mobile app orders.

Oklahoma – Chick-fil-A

Oklahoma keeps things straightforward and sticks with Chick-fil-A. Quick service, good chicken, no surprises—exactly what Oklahomans like. Chick-fil-A opened its first Oklahoma store in 1971, and the brand has kept a loyal following ever since. Oklahoma City consistently ranks among the top cities for Chick-fil-A sales nationwide.

Oregon – Panda Express

Panda Express first expanded into Oregon in the '90s and has been a staple in shopping centers and campuses ever since. The community's love for it shows a clear preference for bold flavors on the go. With a focus on convenience, Panda fits right into the Pacific Northwest's busy lifestyle.

Pennsylvania – Chick-fil-A

Pennsylvania sides with Chick-fil-A, favoring the chain’s quick service and familiar menu. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh both helped grow the brand’s presence in the Northeast. Pennsylvania was one of the first northern states where Chick-fil-A tested its breakfast menu, and the chicken biscuit rarely left the top picks.

Rhode Island – McDonald's

Rhode Island may be small, but McDonald's has a significant presence. They offer easy access, consistent menus, and fast service, making it a go-to for busy Rhode Islanders. One of the first McDonald's locations in New England opened in Providence, helping to spread the golden arches across the Northeast.

South Carolina – Chick-fil-A

South Carolina’s choice is no surprise: Chick-fil-A leads by a landslide. Southern hospitality and fried chicken go hand in hand, and Chick-fil-A captures both. Columbia and Charleston are full of locations, often packed before and after football games. Sundays stay quiet, but it’s all about the chicken Monday through Saturday.

South Dakota – McDonald's

Spotting a McDonald's in South Dakota feels like finding a reliable old friend. Travelers and locals grab Big Macs, fries, and McFlurries without missing a beat. McDonald's Shamrock Shakes are so popular here that locations often run out well before St. Patrick’s Day even arrives.

Tennessee – Chick-fil-A

Nothing gets Tennesseans through a long workday or a tailgate like a Chick-fil-A sandwich and a side of waffle fries. This state knows its fried chicken, and Chick-fil-A still holds its own next to Nashville hot. Plus, Tennessee drive-thrus turn into mini traffic jams every Friday night—and nobody minds.

Texas – Chick-fil-A

Texas, land of brisket and Tex-Mex, seriously loves its Chick-fil-A. It's on almost every corner in Dallas and Houston. Texans love pairing their chicken sandwiches with waffle fries and giant iced teas. Texas has more Chick-fil-A locations than any other state except Georgia—and honestly, it’s a close race.

Utah – In-N-Out

Ask anyone leaving a Utah trailhead where they’re headed; odds are it’s In-N-Out. The Double-Double and animal-style fries practically qualify as official post-hike recovery meals. When Utah finally got its first In-N-Out in 2009, people camped outside overnight—because nothing says commitment like a burger-induced sleepover.

Vermont – Taco Bell

When hunger hits in Vermont, locals aren’t craving maple syrup—they’re sprinting to Taco Bell. With few fast-food options scattered between ski resorts and sleepy towns, a Chalupa or Crunchwrap Supreme becomes an essential pit stop. Nothing beats a warm taco feast after a cold day shredding the slopes.

Virginia – Chick-fil-A

Whether it’s a pit stop between Richmond and Virginia Beach or a quick bite after a long work day, those chicken sandwiches always hit the mark. Virginia has some of the earliest Chick-fil-A mall locations outside the Deep South, and they’re still packed decades later.

Washington – Charleys Philly Steaks

Out in Washington, Charleys Philly Steaks has carved out its spot with juicy cheesesteaks dripping in melted cheese and peppers. No rainy day stands a chance against a footlong steak sandwich. Charleys, which started in an Ohio food court, found a primary second home in Washington’s mall scenes and suburban hubs.

West Virginia – McDonald's

After winding through mountain roads, a McDonald's drive-thru is a welcome sight in West Virginia. Quick coffee, Egg McMuffins, crispy fries—McDonald's covers all the cravings. Plus, the first McDonald’s opened in the state in 1964, and generations later, it’s still fueling road trips and weekday lunches.

Wisconsin – McDonald's

Wisconsinites love their cheese, sure, but they love convenience too—and when you’re late for work or heading back from a Packers game, that drive-thru Big Mac just makes sense. Wisconsin has some of the Midwest's oldest continuously operating McDonald's locations that still carry that classic '60s diner vibe.

Wyoming – Carl's Jr.

Carl’s Jr. expanded across the western U.S. in the ‘70s, and Wyoming quickly became prime territory thanks to its love for hearty, no-nonsense food. Travelers and locals know that when you need a meal that feels like a meal, those big, charbroiled burgers deliver every time.